On our way to breakfast on July 13, 2024, Joan and I spotted a vole paddling frantically from a stump in Lake O'Hara to the shore to forage. It did this twice before developing shyness. Small things count among the mountains.
We decided to visit the Odaray Highline today, with the option, conditions permitting, of climbing up to the Grandview. We hustled up to the sign-up kiosk,
closed earlier but now open, to sign in -- only four parties were allowed across the gap at this time of year. (Click on any image to enlarge.)
As is customary, Joan and I waited a while to see if any other hikers would appear; together we would form one group/disturbance instead of two, however, none did, and we set off. At the far end of the gap, I took this photo pointing southwest towards the Selkirk range.
The trail ahead wound with the mountain slopes to our left, and greenery still a stone's throw to our right (if not in this photo).
A few deeply shaded spots still sheltered snow -- and critter tracks!
Although we spotted few actual critters on the way out (there was one golden-mantled squirrel),
various flowers in various states of emergence and blooming were present, maturity varying according to the altitude, sun exposure, and their genetics. Here was some pink mountain heather.
At the end of a gently rising trail, the way forward on the prospect has been off-limits for a long time due to grizzly bear conflicts.
However, the Grandview trail heads steeply up the mountain, at first with switchbacks. Here's a photo from 2016.
Joan and I began the climb up, but without any intention of reaching the top. After our snow adventures yesterday, and feeling some fatigue after the last several days of hiking, we decided to defer the narrow, sometimes hands-and-feet clambering final stage. Rather, we climbed along until my altimeter watch showed an additional 250' of gain, and found a spot for the first half of our lunch. Along the way we spotted interesting fungi.
Looking back from the start of the climb.
Other hikers began to arrive, and true early birds came down from the top. No problems with snow, they declared. Still, Joan and I weren't tempted. Next year?
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| Lake O'Hara is at left. |
A view heading back on the Highline.
As we regained the kiosk, we had a fabulous marmot sighting. This boulder is a favorite of theirs.
Joan and I connected to the McArthur trail and walked a bit before finishing our lunch.
Two young marmots made an appearance!
We also heard pikas, but never spotted them.
A big wind began to blow up the gap, and we decided to return, via the kiosk, down to Schaffer Lake, and then along Big Larches. We needed time to pack anyway, as our luggage would be picked up at 10am the next day, even if we were taking the 4:30pm bus to our car. Packing is never finished, but we had time to attend dinner!
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